Ranger Suárez

There will be challenges ahead. Nothing is guaranteed. But a first half like the Phillies had affords certain luxuries.

The All-Star Game will have a distinct Phillies slant. It's a reflection of what they have accomplished so far. They have bigger goals.

After allowing 20 earned runs in his first 16 starts, Suárez has been tagged for 11 runs in his last two.

This meant everything to Suárez. "I wanted them with me during the season," he said, "and to spend every single night with my family."

Many top American players emerge as legitimate pitching prospects only in college. Few Latin American players have that opportunity.

Suárez's X-rays were negative, but his left thumb is swollen after taking a line drive off his pitching hand against the Cardinals.

Suarez is the first since Juan Marichal in 1966 to go 9-0 or better with a sub-1.50 ERA in his first 10 starts. Nola has taken it all in.

The Phillies have always dreamed of this version of Bohm. Is it real?

The Phillies' rotation has allowed 4 earned runs over its last 51 2/3 innings. The catcher shares his perspective on what's working so well.

The Phillies have dreamed of Suárez making the leap. He is a good mid-rotation starter. He could be something better. Maybe he's ready.

There is growing concern — or at least confusion — within the organization regarding Walker, who has yet to find his velocity this spring.

The Phillies, in discussions with player agents and other clubs, have identified pitching depth as their priority, according to sources.

This will be the Phillies' first Game 7 in franchise history. The Diamondbacks have taken part in one very memorable Game 7.

"There's a few other guys in baseball, but more than anybody we face, he's the biggest challenge," Kevin Long said of Spencer Strider.

Taking stock of the Phillies' enviable bullpen situation. Plus, Ranger Suárez's sizzling inning and the latest on Alec Bohm's return.

The pitching — specifically, the rotation — has to be the biggest concern, and one underlying issue has compounded the starters' woes.

The Phillies claimed Covey, a 31-year-old RHP whom the Dodgers designated for assignment after he pitched four innings for them on May 17.

Suárez's short outing came two days after Taijuan Walker couldn't get out of the first inning and with the fifth starter spot unsettled.